JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Three Zimbabwean exiles chained themselves to a statue of anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela in South Africa on Tuesday, saying they wanted "freedom" for their homeland on the eve of elections there.Full story

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Both are hailed as African liberation heroes and both preached, and were praised for, messages of reconciliation and unity when their countries threw off the shackles of white minority rule. Full story

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Former South African President Nelson Mandela remains in a critical condition at a Pretoria hospital but "continues to show improvement," the government said on Tuesday. Full story

Thousands of well-wishers gathered outside the hospital where former South African president Nelson Mandela is recovering. After weeks of worry, his health is said to be improving. NBC’s Ron Allen reports.

Well-wishers hold a giant banner with an image of former South African President Nelson Mandela during a celebration to mark Mandela's 95th birthday at the Angel de la Independencia monument in Mexico City July 18, 2013.REUTERS/Henry Romero

Well-wishers hold a giant banner with an image of former South African President Nelson Mandela during a celebration to mark Mandela's 95th birthday at the Angel de la Independencia monument in Mexico City July 18, 2013. REUTERS/Henry Romero